The mission of the University of Oklahoma Helmerich School of Drama is to educate theatre artists, scholars and teachers, preparing them to enter their professions with a knowledge of evolving industry standards; to perpetuate theatre art by encouraging and nurturing the development of new artistic endeavors; and to provide a variety of theatrical productions and programs of excellence to Oklahoma audiences.

Drama Students Receive National Awards

Washington D.C. April 22-­ Five University of Oklahoma Peggy Dow Helmerich School of Drama students were awarded national honors at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) held in Washington, D.C., April 15‐19, 2014. Hundreds of schools and thousands of students from across the country compete at state and regional festivals for the right to showcase their work at the national KCACTF held every April at the Kennedy
Center in Washington, D.C.

Helmerich School of Drama Mission Statement

Welcome to the University of Oklahoma Helmerich School of Drama! As you browse our site I hope you will get a glimpse of the scope and strengths of our program, the second oldest university dramatic training institution in the nation. Approaching our 90th birthday, we have long been known to deliver a conservatory style education in conjunction with the benefits of a liberal arts environment housed within one of the premier institutions of higher learning in the Midwest.

We are different by design. The training is intense and demanding, preparing you for the realities of a career in the professional industry. Our curriculum is taught by an ensemble of dedicated educators and artists; highly sought professional actors, directors, designers, and stage managers who continually work in their respective fields to maintain national profiles in the industry. Our alums include Academy Award winners, Emmy Award winners, and Tony Award winners. OU School of Drama grads have prolific careers in absolutely every avenue of show business: from Broadway producers, agents and theatre owners, to Hollywood film executives, casting directors, and international film and television stars…the “Sooner Mafia” is everywhere!

Please take a moment to discover why ours is one of the finest drama schools in the nation. Visit our site often to find exciting new additions to our season and programs. If we can be of assistance, please contact us directly at any time.

Best regards and Boomer Sooner!

Tom Huston Orr
James Garner Chair
Director, Helmerich School of Drama

Auditions & Recruiting Events

The University of Oklahoma preliminary auditions and interviews are held at regional thespian conferences throughout the country. To reserve an audition/interview time, please call the Helmerich School of Drama office at 405-325-0546 or email drama_recruitment@ou.edu.